Tumble Dryer
F16
The F16 error code on a Siemens tumble dryer indicates a door lock or door switch fault — the machine cannot confirm the door is properly closed and locked, so it refuses to run. It’s a common fault and often fixable at home, but occasionally points to a failed component that needs replacing.
What does this error mean?
F16 tells you the dryer’s control board is not receiving a signal from the door lock mechanism, meaning it believes the door is open or unsecured. This is a safety interlock — Siemens machines are designed to stop the drum spinning if the door isn’t confirmed shut. The fault can be triggered by a faulty door latch, a broken door switch (microswitch), or a wiring issue between the door and the control board.
Est. repair cost
£80–£130 professional repair; £10–£35 DIY parts (latch, hinge, or door switch)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: switch it off at the wall, wait 2 minutes, then power it back on and attempt to restart the cycle. A one-off control board glitch will clear this way.
Inspect the door latch and catch: open the door and look at the plastic hook on the door and the slot it clicks into on the machine body. If either is visibly cracked, chipped, or worn smooth, the latch needs replacing (parts cost £10–£25 from Siemens spares stockists or BuySpares).
Clear fluff and debris: use a dry cloth to wipe around the door seal, the latch area, and the door rim. Compacted fluff can physically prevent the door from closing fully enough to trip the switch.
Check the door hinge: open and close the door slowly — if it droops, feels loose, or doesn’t sit flush when closed, the hinge may be bent or worn. A misaligned door means the latch won’t engage correctly. Hinge replacement is a DIY-accessible job; hinges cost £15–£35.
Test the door switch (microswitch): if the latch looks fine but the F16 persists, the microswitch behind the door lock assembly has likely failed. This involves removing the top or front panel to access it — if you’re comfortable with basic appliance disassembly, replacement switches cost £10–£20. If not, stop here and call an engineer.
Check wiring connections: with the machine unplugged, if you’ve accessed the door lock area, check that the wiring connector to the door switch is firmly seated and that no wires are visibly chafed or broken. Reconnect any loose connector and retest.
📞 When to call a professional
If resetting the machine, cleaning the latch area, and visually inspecting the door components doesn’t clear the F16, you’ll need an engineer to test the door switch and wiring with a multimeter. Call a Siemens-approved or reputable local appliance engineer and tell them: ‘My Siemens tumble dryer is showing error code F16 — I suspect the door lock switch or latch mechanism.’ This gives them a head start and may reduce call-out time.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an F16 fault — typically a door latch or switch replacement — costs £80–£130 including parts and labour in the UK. If your dryer is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it. For machines 8 years or older, compare the repair quote against a new mid-range condenser or heat pump dryer (£300–£600); if the repair exceeds 50% of replacement cost, replacing makes better long-term sense.